Sri Lanka’s Hambantota port, Al-Futtaim explore Gulf vehicle supply chain ties

ECONOMYNEXT — Sri Lanka’s Hambantota International Port Group (HIPG) and Al-Futtaim Logistics have held discussions to expand their commercial ties, as shipping disruptions in the Middle East position the southern port as a key vehicle transhipment gateway for Gulf markets.

The talks took place during a visit to the port by a delegation headed by the Vice Chairman of the UAE-based Al-Futtaim Group.

Discussions focused on expanding existing business relationships, the role of the CASCADIA RoRo Feeder Service, and potential investment opportunities across the port’s operations and industrial zone.

A white paper published by Al-Futtaim, titled Resilience in Motion, highlighted Hambantota as one of three alternative gateways deployed after supply routes were disrupted around the Strait of Hormuz in March 2026. The other two hubs were Port Sultan Qaboos in Muscat and Port Khor Fakkan in the Gulf of Oman.

Collectively, the three corridors moved over 25,000 finished vehicles into the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia.

“Alternative corridors brought into operation within weeks helped sustain dealer supplies and supported auto manufacturers in returning to full production capacity during the disruption,” An Al-Futtaim representative noted

Connectivity between Hambantota and onward vehicle supply chains in the Gulf has been bolstered by the CASCADIA RoRo Feeder Service, which was launched on June 9, 2026. The service is run by Canada-headquartered maritime specialist CASCADIA.

“Transhipment facilities located outside the immediate disruption zone provide practical alternative delivery routes that keep vital regional supply chains running smoothly,” the port operator said.

Talks also touched on broader contingency planning and regulatory coordination as global operators build resilient networks against future trade shocks. (Colombo/Nov08/2026)